HASLEMERE will shortly welcome its second Syrian refugee family to the town, as part of an initiative co-ordinated by Guildford Diocese.

Haslemere Mayor Malcolm Carter said: “We are delighted to be welcoming our second Syrian refugee family in the next few weeks.

“The first family are still settling in, and at a recent meeting of interested organisations and local residents, was encouraged to join the local community support group.

“This group is split into committed volunteers who stand alongside the families and assist them in their integration, while the second group are ‘befrienders’, who come alongside and help with simple needs, from shopping, to walking to school with the family.

“I am sure that these people who have suffered much will find Haslemere a welcoming town.”

Jo Cookes, director of the Diocese of Guildford’s communities engagement team, told The Herald:“Our parishes work continually with the county and borough councils, charities and local communities to help refugees currently displaced by conflict and persecution.

“As Christians, we want to provide loving service and welcome to communities and to respond to those who are vulnerable by being a welcoming presence, accepting of everyone, and walking alongside those in need.

“Our parishes and other local churches have provided English language classes and a conversation café to encourage friendship and improve English skills, and have provided short term accommodation for asylum seekers, in partnership with Refugees At Home.

“Parishes have been so generous in raising money and donating furniture, clothing and food to help families settle into their new communities.”